UAE Passport Photo Requirements and Guidelines
You need a clear and recent photo when you apply for a United Arab Emirates passport. The tool above helps you crop your image to the correct size before you submit it.
Official Size and Dimensions
The official photo size is 35 by 45 mm (about 1.38 by 1.77 inches)[1].
ICP handles passport applications and requires the personal photo to comply with ICAO standards[1].
The supplied facts do not identify an official head-height measurement. Center your face as a practical framing choice.
When you crop the image, leave a little space around your head and shoulders.
Background and Lighting Rules
Use a white background and submit a recent, ICAO-compliant photo[1].
A plain white background can help meet the stated background requirement.
Good lighting helps the camera capture your true skin tone and facial features clearly. Face a bright window or use soft indoor lights so your face has no harsh dark shadows.
Avoid standing too close to the wall behind you. Moving a step away stops shadows from falling on the background. Turn off any colored lights and use natural daylight if possible.
Taking Your Photo at Home
You can take the photo at home with a camera or phone. Place the camera at eye level for a straight-on view.
Ask someone else to take the photo so you can face the camera directly.
Look straight ahead when the photo is taken.
Look directly at the camera and keep your head upright.
Submission and Age Rules
The passport service lists a personal photo among the required documents[1]. Submit it through an approved service channel.
Passports are valid for 10 years for citizens aged 21 and above and five years for those under 21[1].
Children and infants must also follow the general photo standards, though getting very young babies to look at the camera can require patience.
For babies, you may find it easier to lay them on a plain white sheet and take the photo from above.
Common Reasons for Refusal
Check that the photo is clear and well lit before submitting it.
Submit a recent photo that complies with ICAO standards[1].
Check that your photo is clear, recent, and complies with ICAO standards[1].
Checking Your Photo
Look closely at your cropped image before you send it or print it.
Check that the background is completely white without any shadows or objects.
Make sure your face takes up most of the frame and your expression is neutral.
Preparing Your Print or Digital Copy
You can use the tool above to crop your photo to 35 by 45 mm.
If you need a print, you can arrange the photo on a 4 by 6 inch sheet.
Print the photo on matte or glossy photo paper without patterns. Set your printer settings to high quality so the details stay sharp. Use scissors or a paper trimmer to cut along the exact edges of the 35 by 45 mm frame.
Frequently asked questions
What is the official size for a UAE passport photo?
The official size is 35 by 45 mm, or about 1.38 by 1.77 inches[1].
What background color do I need to use?
Use a white background and submit a recent, ICAO-compliant photo[1].
Who issues UAE passports and sets the rules?
ICP handles passport services and requires a personal photo that complies with ICAO standards[1].
Can I submit my passport photo online?
The service lists a personal photo among the required documents[1].
How long is a UAE passport valid?
The passport term is 10 years for citizens aged 21 and above, and 5 years for those under 21[1].